No real shock in our last poll where we asked: What do we need most in Jan transfer window? 81% voted that a striker was needed. 11% voted that it doesn't matter what we need as we'll not be signing anyone this month. That left 8% calling for an attacking midfielder. The other options, (goalie, defender/s, full back/s or a holding midfielder) all registered no votes.

Last week Villa announced that Nicky Shorey will remain on loan at Nottingham Forest until January 26 2010 and Isaiah Osbourne has seen his loan move to Middlesbrough extended until February 5. Full details: Villa Loan Activity

Older rumours: Several papers today including the Guardian and The Mail are claiming that Villa are in the chase along with Spurs and Liverpool to sign 29-year-old West Ham midfielder Scott Parker. Full links: Thursdays Aston Villa Press Transfer Talk

Craig Gardner - out of the squad again yesterday - looks to be off this January with both Blues and Wolves being linked with a £3.5 move for the versatile midfielder.